We will be posting more questions as we get them. Here are some of the more common questions we have gotten so far.

Q: How many participants will be allowed to register?
A: The race capacity is 400 people.

Q: Is Hickory Grove Triathlon sanctioned by the USAT?A: Yes, Hickory Grove Triathlon is sanctioned by the USAT and will observe all USAT rules. Everyone must have an annual membership or purchase a one day USAT license.

Q: What is a one-day USAT license?
A: A one-day license allows an athlete to compete in a USAT sanctioned race without purchasing an annual membership. The $12 fee provides the athlete with excess accident insurance for that race only. You can purchase this one day license online when you register.

Q: Is Hickory Grove Triathlon chip-timed?A: Yes. HGT is chip-timed.

Q: What is the Heart of America Series and is HGT part of it?A: Yes, HGT is part of the Heart of America Triathlon Series. The Heart of America Triathlon Series (HOA) is a collection of some of the best and longest standing races in Iowa. http://hoatri.wordpress.com/

Q: Will there be a relay division?A: Yes, you can do the triathlon with 2 or 3 people in the relay division.

Q: Will there be a Clydesdale or Athena Division?A: Yes, Clydesdale are males over 220 pounds and Athena’s are females over 165 pounds.

Q: Do I have to wear a helmet?A: YES – No Exceptions.

Q: Did this race used to be called Cy-Man Triathlon in years past?A: Yes, this race changed names in 2008 to Hickory Grove Triathlon. Everything else including the date, location, course, and race directors are the same.

Q: How do I get my registration packet on race weekend?
A: You can pick up your race packet at Bike World in Ames, IA on Sat. June 15 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Race day packet pickup will be from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. on Sunday. Please, make every effort to pick up your packet on Saturday.

Q: What time does the transition area close?A: The transition area closes at 7:45 a.m. Please, make every effort to be out of the transition before 7:45 a.m. so we can start the race on time. If we don’t have everyone on the beach by 7:50 it can potentially throw a wrench in the timing system which will delay your race.

Q: Are wetsuits allowed?
A: Wetsuits are allowed in a USA Triathlon sanctioned event if the water temperature is 78 degrees or below. Race Officials will test the water temperature on race morning. So far, the race has been wetsuit legal every year.

Q: Is there a warm-up swim?
A: You can go in the lake before the first wave begins. Once the race begins you may not go in the lake until your wave begins.

Q: How many water stations are on the run course?
A: TWO. One aid station with water will be located on the opposite side of lake The second will be located about one mile from the finish line..

Q: Can I pick up my friend's packet?
A: No. Every participant must pick up their own packet and sign their own waiver. The only exception is that a parent can pickup their childs packet if they have to co-sign the USAT waiver.

Q: Do I have to wear the swim cap?
A: Yes, the swim cap MUST be worn. The color given to each athlete is specific to your wave, so you cannot switch colors.

Q: Where is the best place for spectators to watch the race?
A: 1. Swim Start at the beach
2. Entrance to the park for bicyclists. It is only short .2 mile walk from beach
3. Transition area or boat ramp for the transition to run
4. Last but not least at the finish line.

Q: How do I know if I am registered?
A: An entry list will be posted on the website that will be updated throughout the registration period. We will try and update it once a week after June 1st.

Q: Are there any refunds or transfers?
A: There are no refunds or transfers. If you are unable to do the triathlon please let us know ASAP so someone else can take your spot.

Q: What is the minimum age to participate?
A: All youth athletes must be at least 13 years old to participate in this event. All youth participants must have a $15 annual membership to the USAT.